Cleverley over 'nightmare'

Manchester United midfielder, Tom Cleverley, is determined to make up for lost time after "the hardest season of his life".

The 22-year-old sustained both ligament damage in his foot in August then an ankle injury causing him to be substituted after 57 minutes against Everton last October.

Cleverley played a key role in United's flying start to the season and was tipped to go to the Euros, but was left out of Roy Hodgson's squad due to his injuries and match fitness after not playing in a Premier League fixture since last year.

"It has been a nightmare at times but I am only 22 and have around 15 years ahead of me yet. i just hope I've got it all over and done with now.

"There were times during the season when I thought I was the unluckiest footballer in the world. From a great start it became the hardest season of my life - but it has made me mentally stronger."

Despite being called up for the England first-team squad for the Euro 2012 qualifying matches against Bulgaria and Wales, alongside teammates Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, Cleverley has yet to receive his first England first-team cap.

In January the young star seemed positive about his fitness progress tweeting: "Plan to b outside running in 2 weeks and training the week after that. Cnt wait to b back!"

Cleverley, who started his footballing career at Bradford City before jointing Manchester united at the age of 12, speaks highly of his club and is looking forward to featuring in Sir Alex Ferguson's starting line-up in August.

"There is nothing more exciting in life than to be playing for Manchester United. To have that taken away is very hard to deal with.

"I don't feel I am owed anything. I've had some bad luck and now I just have to get on with it."

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